The Chicago Blackhawks will release mobile applications for both the BlackBerry and Android operating systems on September 17, in conjunction with the beginning of the team’s 2010 Training Camp. The official Blackhawks apps will help fans stay connected to the 2010 Stanley Cup Champions by delivering the latest video, news, stats and photos directly to their mobile device.

“Giving the Blackhawks a presence on two of the most popular mobile platforms provides another innovative avenue for fans to embrace our growing brand,” Blackhawks Senior Vice President of Business Operations Jay Blunk said. “These new applications give our great fans a fresh way to stay connected with the team.”

The free mobile applications, which fans will be able to download from BlackBerry App World and the Android Market, will feature all of the behind-the-scenes footage provided by Blackhawks TV, including video content produced exclusively for these devices. The app will also incorporate news, photos, stats and schedule information, along with updates from the team’s award-winning Twitter feed.

“Our Blackhawks TV video features showcase the personalities of our talented young roster and we’re very excited to deliver these features to fans on their mobile devices,” said Blackhawks Director of New Media and Publications Adam Kempenaar. “We’re proud to be one of only two NHL teams offering an Android app, and to join the very small number of clubs offering mobile apps on two operating systems with an eye toward all three of the major platforms.”

The BlackBerry, produced by Research In Motion, is the most popular smartphone operating system in the U.S., comprising more than 41 percent of the smartphone market. Google’s Android operating system, the fastest-growing U.S. platform, currently makes up more than 13 percent of the smartphone market.

Fans will be able to download both applications via chicagoblackhawks.com starting September 17.

For users with other Web-enabled phones, the Blackhawks will soon launch a re-designed mobile Web (WAP) site. The club’s current mobile site can be accessed at http://m.blackhawks.nhl.com.